The X-Men, in Bryan Singer's hands, were a safe bet. They were comic book action but the core story of outcasts and being feared for being different remained. The films were driven by character rather than just action, and the cast was uniformly impressive, even those who had little to do held up their end of the bargain. I feared when the series was handed to Brett Ratner, as most people did. However, and thankfully, I am forced to take my early opinions, turn them sideways and shove them straight up my fat ass. Ratner has hit, what for him, is a home run, and he has delivered another very good addition to the X-Men films.

SPOILERS AHEAD

The story is two headed this time round, with there being a cure for "being a mutant" and also the re-emergence of Jean Gray, soon to be known as the dark Phoenix. I was shocked by this film, as we lose two major characters early on and it throws into question who else will pass on. Phoenix's decimation of Professor X is especially surprising, not just the brutality of his murder, but also the emotional impact. It's very well handled and packs quite a punch, especially to anyone who has followed both the comic and the series. I almost had a tear in my eye. And I'm still processing that they killed the Professor!

I have never been a fan of the Phoenix series of stories, however it is well handled and plays almost as a back story to the cure happenings. Only two things stick with me, one being the fact that Jean kills Cyclops without much worry. This wouldn't be such a problem if Wolverine hadn't saved her (sort of) with his love, as although she has a love, of sorts, for him her heart was with Cyclops. I know Wolverine is central to the films, but it bugged a little. The other stickler is Jean being so easily manipulated by Magneto, again for the most powerful to be his pawn is disappointing.

The introduction of The Beast is a welcome addition though, and toward the end of the movie he turns into an excellent addition. Also well done is the action, fast and frantic. This time you really get to see mutant war, and the fighting scenes are well realised and powerful, especially for a 12A.

I will be disappointed if this is the last in the X-Men series, as it has been brilliant compared to most. I feel they may move along with a Wolverine movie, I would welcome another X-Men film, even with Ratner at the helm!!